Criminal Anthropology: An Overview
Introduction
Criminal anthropology is an emerging field of study that explores the biological, psychological, and social influences that contribute to criminal behavior. It examines the characteristics of offenders, victims, and their contexts to gain a better understanding of why criminal activity occurs. Criminal anthropology is an interdisciplinary field that draws on research from numerous disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, criminology, and public health. This article provides an overview of the basic concepts of criminal anthropology, its research methods, and its contributions to our understanding of crime and criminal justice.
Definition and Historical Background
Criminal anthropology is a field of study that examines the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to criminal behavior. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws on research from various disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, criminology, and public health. The term “criminal anthropology” was first used by Cesare Lombroso in the late 19th century to refer to the study of physical characteristics of criminals. Lombroso’s work was based on the belief that criminals could be identified by physical traits, such as facial features and body size. Although Lombroso’s work has since been discredited, his influence on the field of criminal anthropology cannot be overstated.
Research Methods
Criminal anthropology relies on a variety of research methods to gain a better understanding of criminal behavior. These methods include observational studies, correlational studies, experiments, interviews, surveys, and archival research. Observational studies are used to observe offenders or victims in their natural environment, while correlational studies examine the relationship between two or more variables. Experiments are used to assess the effects of different variables on criminal behavior, while interviews and surveys are used to collect qualitative data from offenders or victims. Finally, archival research is used to analyze existing data, such as criminal records or court documents.
Contributions to Criminal Justice
Criminal anthropology has made important contributions to our understanding of crime and criminal justice. By examining the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to criminal behavior, criminal anthropologists can provide insight into why criminals engage in certain activities and what interventions may be most effective in reducing crime. For example, research has shown that certain mental health conditions can contribute to criminal behavior, and that interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy can be effective in reducing recidivism rates. Furthermore, criminal anthropology can help create more effective policies and programs to address crime, such as restorative justice initiatives and victim services.
Conclusion
Criminal anthropology is an interdisciplinary field of study that explores the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to criminal behavior. It relies on a variety of research methods to gain a better understanding of criminal activity, and has made important contributions to our understanding of crime and criminal justice. As the field of criminal anthropology continues to evolve, it is likely to become an increasingly important part of the criminal justice system.
References
Bosworth, M. (2001). Criminal Anthropology: A Guide to Theory and Practice. London: Routledge.
Hicks, J. (2018). Criminal Anthropology in Historical Perspective. Annual Review of Criminology, 1(1), 1-22.
Lombroso, C. (1876). The Criminal Man. Turin: Bocca.
Sutherland, E. H. (1949). Principles of Criminology. Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott.
Wilson, J. Q., & Herrnstein, R. J. (1985). Crime and Human Nature. New York: Simon & Schuster.